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Ultrasound · Fasting required

Abdominal Ultrasound in Miami

A painless, radiation-free scan of the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, spleen, kidneys and abdominal aorta — performed at our Miami imaging center.
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Overview

A Clear Look at Your Abdominal Organs

An abdominal ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to create real-time images of the organs in your upper abdomen. It is one of the most common first tests for abdominal pain and abnormal liver or kidney blood work, and it involves no radiation and no needles.

A complete abdominal ultrasound evaluates all upper abdominal organs; a limited (right upper quadrant) exam focuses on the liver and gallbladder.

Why Your Doctor May Order It

  • Upper abdominal pain, bloating or tenderness
  • Suspected gallstones or gallbladder inflammation
  • Abnormal liver function tests or fatty liver
  • Enlarged liver or spleen
  • Follow-up of known cysts or masses
  • Unexplained nausea, vomiting or weight loss

Preparation required

How to Prepare

Food & drink
Nothing to eat or drink for 8 hours before your exam (overnight fasting is easiest — book a morning slot).
Medications
Take your usual medications with small sips of water unless your doctor says otherwise.
Diabetes
If you take insulin or diabetes medication, ask your physician how to adjust while fasting.
Avoid
Chewing gum and smoking before the exam — they add air to the stomach and blur the images.
Duration
About 30–45 minutes.
Always follow any instructions from your ordering physician. Questions? Call 786-353-9160.
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What to expect

Your Exam, Step by Step

01

Check in

Arrive 10 minutes early with your photo ID, insurance card and your physician’s order.
02

Your Scan

You lie on an exam table while a registered sonographer applies warm gel and moves a handheld transducer across your abdomen. You may be asked to hold your breath briefly.
03

Results

A board-certified radiologist interprets your study, and the report is sent to your physician within 48 business hours.
Good to know

Services We Don’t Offer

Transvaginal UltrasoundObstetric (Pregnancy) UltrasoundPediatric Imaging
Every other ultrasound exam is available. See all exams →

FAQ

Common Questions

Eating causes the gallbladder to contract and fills the bowel with gas, both of which make it harder to see your organs clearly. Fasting for 8 hours gives the most accurate images.
Small sips of water to take medications are fine. Otherwise avoid all food and drink for 8 hours.
No. You may feel light pressure from the transducer, especially over tender areas, but the exam is painless and uses no radiation.
Yes. A complete abdominal ultrasound includes the kidneys. If your doctor only needs the kidneys and bladder, a renal ultrasound may be ordered instead.

Related Exams

Renal & Bladder Ultrasound

Kidneys and urinary bladder evaluation.
Learn more →

Abdominal Aorta Ultrasound

Aneurysm (AAA) screening and follow-up.
Learn more →

Soft Tissue Ultrasound

Lumps, cysts, hernias and superficial masses.
Learn more →

Board-certified radiologists. Patient-focused care.

Schedule Your Imaging Exam Today

Same-day and next-day appointments are often available. Book online or call our team with any questions.
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